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Kuwait: Deadly Attack on Mosque

Response of Authorities Will Test Commitment to Rights

(Beirut) – The suicide attack on a Shia mosque in Kuwait City on June 26, 2015, was a callous and despicable act that should be universally condemned. The attack killed at least 25 worshipers and wounded more than 200 others.

The extremist group Islamic State (also known as ISIS) claimed responsibility for the attack on the Imam Sadiq Mosque in Kuwait City as it was filled with worshipers attending Friday prayers during the holy month of Ramadan. It is believed to be the first such sectarian attack in Kuwait.

“Until now, Kuwait had escaped the extremist sectarian violence that has become so widespread across the region,” said Sarah Leah Whitson, Middle East and North Africa director. “In the face of such horrors, it is more important than ever for Kuwaiti authorities to show through their response a strong commitment to the rule of law.”

Media outlets posted footage and photos of the scene of the bombing, including victims in bloodstained garments at the site.

The Kuwaiti authorities should take all appropriate steps to bring those responsible to justice, ensuring that their due process rights are respected.

“Our thoughts are with the victims and their loved ones,” Whitson said. “Upholding the principles of free and fair trials for those responsible will be key not only to delivering justice for the victims and all Kuwaitis but also combatting and overcoming the sort of extremism that gave rise to this crime.”

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